The Cologne Responding Lab serves as a collaborative platform where science and emergency services converge to advance disaster management practices through applied research and active student involvement. By engaging students in practical activities such as large-scale exercises, real emergency deployments, and hands-on projects, the Lab creates a unique learning environment that bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world challenges. This approach not only enriches academic research but also facilitates the rapid translation of findings into effective operational concepts and tools. Within this framework, students are empowered to develop innovative solutions, including hardware prototypes and training programs focused on fire safety and local disaster response. A notable example is the design and construction of a digital version of a tabletop exercise, which fosters interactive and immersive emergency training exercises. This tool enhances collaboration and decision-making skills among participants, exemplifying how practical student projects directly contribute to emergency preparedness. Participation in authentic emergency scenarios and development projects provides essential experience, fostering a deeper understanding of societal needs and enhancing the relevance of academic work. Moreover, the Interdisciplinary Research Group (IRG) promotes an open exchange of knowledge with the broader community, making research data and results accessible to practitioners and stakeholders. The active inclusion of students in the Cologne Responding Lab exemplifies a shift towards experiential learning and real-world labs in higher education, benefiting both society and students by cultivating innovation, collaboration, and responsiveness in emergency management. Ultimately, the Lab contributes to building resilient communities through knowledge transfer, education, and practical engagement.

Authors:
Ompe Aimé Mudimu, Technische Hochschule Köln, Germany
Thomas Säger, Technische Hochschule Köln, Germany
Konrad Barth, Technische Hochschule Köln, Germany
Lennart Landsberg, Technische Hochschule Köln, Germany
Niklas Tschäschke, Technische Hochschule Köln, Germany

About the Presenter(s)
Thomas Säger earned a Bachelor’s in Rescue Engineering (2011) and a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering (2015). Since 2011, he is a Senior Lab Engineer at the Institute of Rescue Engineering, focusing on substance transfer and incident management.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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